The Victorian government has the opportunity to establish itself as national leader on climate change by setting ambitious Emissions Reduction Targets (ERTs). The importance of these targets was articulated by renowned environmentalist Paul Hawken at the recent Climate Change Drawdown Summit in Bendigo.

Mr Hawken was visiting Australia to promote his new book, Project Drawdown: the Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming. On the 22nd of February, the Bendigo Sustainability Group hosted to Mr Hawken in an evening dedicated to discussing economy-wide carbon abatement solutions and how to move towards the new, low-carbon economy.

In response, Mr Hawken outlined the need for ambitious targets as they set an example for all Victorians to follow. He told the audience “when you make the goals audacious and bold and encompassing and great, it makes people great and bold and audacious and encompassing.” If the Andrews government sets bold, courageous targets, it can drive innovation in Victorian businesses, organisations, and communities as they strive to reach these goals.

"Hands up if you want ambitious ERTs": Community members at the Bendigo event

Given the climate impacts that are already being seen in Victoria, it is time for Victorian politicians to heed Hawken’s advice and commit to strong climate action. They can do this by setting ambitious ERTs and committing to a climate-focussed state budget to provide long term investment in climate change solutions.

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